John Sherman: “Is there no hope of persuasion of the southern people at large to see the justice of the demand for equal political…”

The events of the future are beyond the vision of mankind, but I hope our people will be content with internal growth, and avoid the complications of foreign acquisitions.

The Union already embraces discordant elements enough without adding others.

Proud of Ohio, of its history and people, willing at all times to sound its praise in the sisterhood of states, yet, according to my convictions, the United States is entitled to my allegiance, and all parts of it should receive equal care…

Though my grateful thanks are due to them and have been often expressed, yet I have felt, as they do, that my duty was to the whole country.